Merlin helicopter equipped with Crowsnest departs RNAS Culdrose for the Middle East

A Royal Navy Merlin helicopter was seen departing from RNAS Culdrose for the Middle East over the weekend to help further strengthen the UK's ability to detect aerial threats in the region.

Merlin HM2 helicopters are equipped with either anti-submarine warfare (ASW) or airborne surveillance and control (ASaC). 

The aircraft left Britain as the UK successfully engaged a one-way attack drone fired from Iran towards Iraq.

• HMS Prince of Wales deployment notice cut to five days amid criticism of UK readiness
• Sea Viper missiles loaded onto HMS Dragon as she prepares to sail to eastern Mediterranean
• A sledgehammer to crack a nut: Ex-fighter pilot's take on F-35 downing drone

The engagement happened as RAF Typhoons and F-35 jets continued to conduct defensive sorties over Jordan, Qatar and Cyprus. 

The Merlin helicopter can fly up to a mile in the air, giving advance warning of incoming drones or missiles. 

This aircraft was pictured with Crowsnest airborne surveillance and control attached to its side. 

Crowsnest utilises very powerful radar to provide long-range air, maritime, and land-tracking capabilities, enabling the UK to detect any threat early, according to defence contractor and aerospace firm Lockheed Martin.